54-Year-Old Minneapolis Man John Herbert Sawchak Arrested After Five-Hour Standoff; Charged with Attempted Murder of Neighbor Davis Moturi Following Months of Harassment and Racially Motivated Threats

In a frightening and terrible case that has gripped the Minneapolis community, John Herbert Sawchak, 54, was arrested early Monday morning on October 23, 2024, for reportedly shooting his neighbor, 34-year-old Davis Moturi, in the neck. The violent incident, which resulted from a long-running and growing conflict, has sparked considerable outrage over the processing of complaints and worries about harassment, mental health, and racial discrimination. Minneapolis police drew intense criticism as details about the months preceding up to the incident emerged, including Moturi’s frequent reports saying Sawchak was harassing and threatening him. The scenario culminated in a dramatic five-hour confrontation that concluded with Sawchak’s capitulation.

After being arrested, Sawchak was charged with attempted murder, first-degree assault, felony harassment, and stalking. Authorities have now announced changes to the charges to account for Sawchak’s alleged racial motivation, raising serious concerns about the role of law enforcement in resolving domestic conflicts, especially when mental health issues are involved. The shooting and the circumstances surrounding it have sparked public debate, with activists, local politicians, and people demanding greater accountability and reform from the Minneapolis Police Department.

The shooting of Davis Moturi was not an isolated incident, but rather the conclusion of a long period of rising hatred. Moturi, a Kenyan immigrant who had moved to the United States a decade before, had settled in Minneapolis and was described by friends and colleagues as an industrious and friendly guy. He worked in logistics for a small supply chain company and had spent the previous two years living alone in a quiet Minneapolis area.